tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48810459169526367132018-08-10T00:13:06.645+08:00A Dollop Of Me | family, food, healthy living, life's tidbitsfamily, Food, Healthy Living, Lifestyle, Marriage, Cooking, Parenting, DesignCorsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.comBlogger1003125ADollopOfMehttps://feedburner.google.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-9099707843808686652015-01-02T00:30:00.000+08:002015-01-02T00:30:29.084+08:00Out with the Old, In with the New<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:OfficeDocumentSettings> <o:AllowPNG/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings></xml><![endif]--><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> 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Name="Bibliography"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/> </w:LatentStyles></xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]><style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style><![endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">2015 has arrived and before too much of it slips by, I wanted to share some thoughts here, after having been away from this space for so long.&nbsp;</span><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">2014 was not an easy year both on the personal front as well as in general, with incredibly devastating disasters and atrocities happening across the world. I have found myself on many occasions being deeply saddened, overwhelmed by despair, or sunken with a deep sense of loneliness. The struggle to find reasons, answers, solutions to things have taken its toll and many times, I have felt like giving up, tempted to forget about always choosing the right and the good, and instead give in to the strongest currents.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Thankfully, I have not been forsaken, and although no one person has been able to be alongside me this whole journey, there have been many dear ones who have given me time and have listened to my heart. To those of you, I thank you, and seek your forgiveness for not having shared more of myself, not because I did not want to, but simply because I somehow could not bring myself to do so. It has been incredibly hard to share of myself even with the closest, and needless to say almost none of this dark side has appeared on the blog. This reticence on my part has made a mark this year, and I don’t quite know what to make of it.&nbsp;</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">On this note, I have decided to draw this blog as it is to a close. For several weeks now, I have mulled over shutting it down completely. However, I have now decided to keep it running, for it has been my sidekick for almost 10 years, and killing it might risk a part of me dying. For now, I will no longer be doing anymore reviews or sponsorships, and will likely not attend any more media events. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>I have been completely shite at responding to blog emails this past year, and it is time that I start the new year right by being clearer about what this space is going to be. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span>I would like to thank all my blog partners and sponsors in the past years, for giving us gratifying experiences that we mostly would not have done on our own. Many of these experiences are happy memories in our hearts and minds. This blog will now just simply be a space for me to say my random piece, unfettered by timelines and what-nots, including (hopefully) my annoying perfectionist streak.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">From tomorrow (2 Jan 2015), I will closing my life chapter of being a stay-home-mum, and will be back in the workforce. It was one roller-coaster ride coming to this decision and putting things in place to make it happen. For now, I am going to roll with it, and hopefully live to tell my story.&nbsp;</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In this new year, I hope to continue to plug at my “Eliminate and Concentrate” motto, to keep the big picture while working on the small things, and to work at being healthy in mind, body and spirit to run life’s marathon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Thank you all for being a special part of my life – and here’s to a better 2015 for everyone!</span></div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/g8freSm_1UY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com29http://www.adollopofme.com/2015/01/out-with-old-in-with-new.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-32690789848207640552014-10-02T21:47:00.000+08:002014-10-02T22:00:11.535+08:00Nutty for Nutella Breakfasts (Giveaway alert)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I867bVmXIwQ/VCwStOzU4XI/AAAAAAAAIE0/R1BpUjOMyxA/s1600/IMG_3869a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I867bVmXIwQ/VCwStOzU4XI/AAAAAAAAIE0/R1BpUjOMyxA/s1600/IMG_3869a.jpg" /></a></div><br />One of my earliest memories of Nutella was watching a friend pile on a huge scoop of the chocolatey spread on a slice of bread. The resulting Nutella sandwich had a layer of creamy spread almost as thick as the bread itself! This friend, as far as I know, still likes his Nutella goodness lathered on bread in generous proportions.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KQzLRmP9Kj0/VCwUghE9bSI/AAAAAAAAIFA/bSBF8Y-XsD8/s1600/IMG_3885a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KQzLRmP9Kj0/VCwUghE9bSI/AAAAAAAAIFA/bSBF8Y-XsD8/s1600/IMG_3885a.jpg" /></a></div><br />I don't blame him. It is hard to go wrong taste-wise when gooey chocolate is in the picture. Add to this to the wholesome flavour of hazelnuts, it is not difficult to see why Nutella is a popular choice as a breakfast spread, or something to be devoured in scoops...(oops, did I just say that?)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ExXoQNTkMVA/VCwVqUR01vI/AAAAAAAAIFM/VMGXbz6EGLQ/s1600/index.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ExXoQNTkMVA/VCwVqUR01vI/AAAAAAAAIFM/VMGXbz6EGLQ/s1600/index.jpg" /></a></div>I do like to vary my children's breakfasts, and Nutella has provided a convenient option. It does not need to be refrigerated, taking up no fridge space, and provides that touch of sweetness to brush away the sometimes-morning-blues.<br /><br />Here is Bun looking very pleased with her share of Nutella: <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Day4T2Rn3mE/VCwZm19TEfI/AAAAAAAAIFY/j50jUkQOgwI/s1600/Nutella%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Day4T2Rn3mE/VCwZm19TEfI/AAAAAAAAIFY/j50jUkQOgwI/s1600/Nutella%2BCollage.jpg" /></a></div><br /><u><b>Nutella Giveaway</b></u><br /><i>Would you like to win for yourself <b>TWO 200g jars of Nutella</b>?</i><br />If so, leave a comment on this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ADollopOfMe/posts/796499830414657?notif_t=notify_me"><b>Facebook post</b></a>, answering the two questions posted there and leaving your email address.<br /><br />This giveaway will end on <u>Wed 8 Oct 12 noon</u>, and 3 winners will be selected soon after. Winners will have to collect the jars from the <a href="http://www.riseandshine-expo.com/">Rise &amp; Shine office</a>.<br /><br />All the best and have a good one for your next breakfast!<br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/luEEJFXoTq8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com15http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/10/nutty-for-nutella-breakfasts-giveaway.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-67441281721459759602014-09-26T12:17:00.000+08:002014-10-01T22:25:40.694+08:00A "My Little Pony" 5th Birthday Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i8GFjxUjflo/VCwOjqfYKgI/AAAAAAAAIEo/mbyGgFMgd-8/s1600/Bubbles%2B5th%2BBirthday%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i8GFjxUjflo/VCwOjqfYKgI/AAAAAAAAIEo/mbyGgFMgd-8/s1600/Bubbles%2B5th%2BBirthday%2B5.jpg" /></a></div>My beloved firstborn just turned five recently. FIVE. Can you imagine that? I organised a "My Little Pony" birthday party for her, and through all the doing - listing, planning, buying, sorting, baking, decorating - I found myself on several occasions wondering how on earth all those years passed by so quickly.<br /><br />This year, my little grown-up girl started thinking about her party from the start of the year. She decided on the theme, and gave me a handwritten list of names of schoolmates whom she wanted to invite. It was a lovely, lovely time watching her quietly (and sometimes shyly) enjoying the time with her friends and family.<br /><br />We set-up a few stations - for hair extensions, making of bracelets, bubbles and Lego. We then played games - pin the tail on the pony, a dress-up relay, and the well-loved pinata. After cake and dinner, I took out some glo-sticks for the children to play with and make bangles - they were a hit as the sun had set and there was a cool breeze blowing.&nbsp; <br /><br />This post's few photos give a glimpse of the party, without compromising our guests' privacy. There are many happy faces in the photos that we received, and they will be will treasured. The photos were taken by a young man from my church - a budding photographer who has taken photos for several weddings of mutual friends. He Facebook page is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/KJS-Photography/145346795494898?sk=info&amp;ref=page_internal"><b>here</b></a>, and Tumblr <a href="http://kjsphotography.tumblr.com/"><b>here</b></a>, if you are interested to see more of his work. <br /><br />Happy birthday my Bubbles. We love you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdOvxZDTPgE/VCTnnt_XaeI/AAAAAAAAID4/nO57_Dt7GRk/s1600/Bubbles%2B5th%2BBirthday%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdOvxZDTPgE/VCTnnt_XaeI/AAAAAAAAID4/nO57_Dt7GRk/s1600/Bubbles%2B5th%2BBirthday%2B3.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sk6ZksasBE4/VCTnogWgTZI/AAAAAAAAIEA/nyLZ-YfQqPI/s1600/Bubbles%2B5th%2BBirthday%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sk6ZksasBE4/VCTnogWgTZI/AAAAAAAAIEA/nyLZ-YfQqPI/s1600/Bubbles%2B5th%2BBirthday%2B1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/mIIvWhcNyH0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com7http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/09/a-my-little-pony-5th-birthday-party.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-49111719726192835212014-09-10T10:52:00.000+08:002014-09-10T10:52:03.919+08:00Spraying away the sickies with B-Sanitized (Discount Code)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JXqGeaywajo/VA7dQngtfYI/AAAAAAAAICk/xiO845yCio8/s1600/20140906_200425a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JXqGeaywajo/VA7dQngtfYI/AAAAAAAAICk/xiO845yCio8/s1600/20140906_200425a.jpg" /></a></div><br />Just look at this little one, enjoying her "kid-sized" ice-cream cone, oblivious to the attention she was getting from other customers around, amused by the intensity of her enjoyment, and dark brown ice-cream smeared all over her mouth and later, nose.<br /><br />Both my girls inherited their great love of ice-cream from their father. He is most happy to take them for ice-cream treats, not only because he gets to have a treat for himself, but also because he absolutely delights in watching them enjoy the dessert. For myself, the one with the non-sweet-tooth, I love watching my girls eat ice-cream more than eating it!<br /><br />Bun has started playschool for a couple of weeks, and as expected, she caught the sickies a few times - the usual fevers, runny noses and coughs. Ice-cream was sometimes used as a source of comfort during those periods!<br /><br />With two children, it is also really handy to have <a href="http://www.ourlifestyleshop.com/#!product/prd1/667381611/b-sanitized%E2%84%A2-%28made-in-usa%29"><b>B-Sanitized</b></a> to chase off the bugs that linger around the house. Young children are known to be least hygienic, and in our home, it is not uncommon to have mucus smeared onto various surfaces (yuck but yes).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9m4DuQ1TWA8/VA7jCRka6oI/AAAAAAAAICw/bOf78SzBueE/s1600/P1080309a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9m4DuQ1TWA8/VA7jCRka6oI/AAAAAAAAICw/bOf78SzBueE/s1600/P1080309a.jpg" /></a></div><br />You might recall that I wrote about B-Sanitized in an <b><a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/08/sanitize-with-b-sanitized-with-discount.html">earlier post</a></b>. Here are photos of the nozzle, that sprays a fine mist with a rather pleasant scent (even for the sensitive nose I have). The spray shoots upwards, from the hole on the top, rather than from the side, so it really feels like you are shooting off the bad guys when you use this! Haha!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W11KgSQZu68/VA-x6OXsayI/AAAAAAAAIDA/4je_O7dBaXs/s1600/P1080172a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W11KgSQZu68/VA-x6OXsayI/AAAAAAAAIDA/4je_O7dBaXs/s1600/P1080172a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QMU7dbKhC1U/VA-yy0QYRFI/AAAAAAAAIDI/fA0uCUZwfbU/s1600/P1080312a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QMU7dbKhC1U/VA-yy0QYRFI/AAAAAAAAIDI/fA0uCUZwfbU/s1600/P1080312a.jpg" /></a></div><br />So where could you use this spray on? We target taps, door handles and the potty. I also try to use it on the handles of the ride-y toys that go down to the playground with us - the tricycle, bicycle, and the skate scooters.<br /><br />We use the spray on the items after a quick wipe-down, and leave it on to dry. It is therefore not difficult to maintain such a routine. If you need to use something quickly however, it is best to let the spray stay on for at least a minute or so, and if the item is still damp, you can gently using a piece of cloth to dab on it.<br /><br />The special promotion is on again for A Dollop of Me's readers!<br />Use promotional code "<b>corsage</b>" to purchase 2 cans of <a href="http://www.ourlifestyleshop.com/#!product/prd1/667381611/b-sanitized%E2%84%A2-%28made-in-usa%29"><b>B-Sanitized</b></a> for only $72 (U.P. $79.80).<br /><br />This offer is valid till <u>30 September 2014</u>, so go shop now in preparation for the start of school again next week! <br /><br />Thank you, <a href="http://www.ourlifestyleshop.com/"><b>Our Lifestyle Shop</b></a>!<br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/YjvTORGNeLU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com4http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/09/spraying-away-sickies-with-b-sanitized.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-11705831351843592602014-09-04T09:26:00.001+08:002014-09-04T09:26:36.383+08:00PreoccupiedSeptember is upon us. How has everyone been?<br /><br />I have been trying hard not to reply with the word "busy" whenever I am asked a question about how I am. Yes, there has been a lot to do - <a href="http://www.petitetravellers.com/2014/08/petite-travellers-at-singapore-blog.html"><b>preparing for and attending the Singapore Blog Awards</b></a> (that was awesome, you should read the post about it if you haven't already!), meetings with potential work bosses, exploring pre-schools with daycare facilities, preparing for Bubbles' birthday party, taking mum out on her birthday, and learning to solo parent more often, now that Roboman is onto a new job with more frequent travel.<br /><br />Recently, I absent-mindedly parked by car at the side of the carpark at our apartment, waiting for someone. I did not realise that my car was at an angle that made it challenging for another car to park. Before I knew what was happening, a neighbour, a man, rapped at my window and told me off. I was shaken and felt terrible, and the word "preoccupied" somehow popped into my head as an explanation.<br /><br />My mind certainly has been preoccupied. There is a lot I am thinking about, pondering, asking, figuring out. There are a few more months to go before I head back into the workforce, and there is a lot to sort out within this time. It is an emotional time for me, but unfortunately also a very private type of emotion that I am unable to fully express, and when I try, my descriptions always fall flat compared to the depth of emotions I feel. <br /><br />Anyway, on to more concrete things:<br /><br />It is Teacher's Day celebrations this week and we have taken time to paint <b><a href="http://instagram.com/p/sfIno5giQD/?modal=true">water colour bouquets</a></b> for my girls' teachers. My girls were so delighted to distribute the gifts, and it was really heartwarming to watch them receive hugs from their teachers. To all teachers reading this, Happy Teacher's Day! You make a difference.<br /><br />The one-week September holidays are happening next week. Are any of you going for a holiday? I recently wrote a post on <a href="http://www.petitetravellers.com/2014/08/travel-friendly-food-for-children.html"><b>Travel-Friendly Food for Children</b></a> on <a href="http://petite travellers"><b>petite travellers</b></a>. For the first time, I deliberately planned a styled shoot for the post. If you can, I would be thrilled if you could pop by to have a look, and I hope you find the tips useful too!<br /><br />Till the next post, see you on <a href="http://instagram.com/adollopofme">Instagram</a>! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--vZVTI3Z3GA/VAe-fbhV5zI/AAAAAAAAHh4/UyqCwa96npA/s1600/P1080228a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--vZVTI3Z3GA/VAe-fbhV5zI/AAAAAAAAHh4/UyqCwa96npA/s1600/P1080228a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/X0f_ybFqhjU" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com1http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/09/preoccupied.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-23390752486582995672014-08-12T13:00:00.000+08:002014-08-12T13:00:00.432+08:00People Impact's IQEQ Programme Review & Free Trial Class<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iPo30JcvfwA/U-LOQl7qt7I/AAAAAAAAGzs/padqEatCrqs/s1600/People+Impact+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iPo30JcvfwA/U-LOQl7qt7I/AAAAAAAAGzs/padqEatCrqs/s1600/People+Impact+Collage.jpg"></a></div><br>A couple of weeks ago, we were invited via <a href="http://www.riseandshine-expo.com/"><b>Rise &amp; Shine</b></a> to experience one session of <a href="http://www.people-impact.com.sg/"><b>People Impact&#39;s</b></a> <a href="http://www.people-impact.com.sg/programmes"><b>IQEQ Programme</b></a>. Bubbles attended a class that included children from aged 3-6, and I sat in to observe the first half of the lesson. This post is written to share about this programme, and some of our experiences when Bubbles attended the class. (You can sign your child up for a free trial session during the upcoming Rise &amp; Shine Expo. Details at the bottom of this post!)<br><a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/08/people-impacts-iqeq-programme-review.html#more">Continue reading »</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/UjC3yVOjAb0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com1http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/08/people-impacts-iqeq-programme-review.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-83098687351012736622014-08-04T13:16:00.001+08:002014-08-04T13:16:50.911+08:00A morning of light, friendship and flowers<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l2AtllDmwpc/U98SgP4VxnI/AAAAAAAAGxw/KNcFkbM88Pk/s1600/PSX_20140803_183557a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l2AtllDmwpc/U98SgP4VxnI/AAAAAAAAGxw/KNcFkbM88Pk/s1600/PSX_20140803_183557a.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photograph c/o Jasmine of <a href="http://scissorspaperstoneblog.com/">Scissors Paper Stone</a><b><br /></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br />If you have seen my <a href="http://instagram.com/adollopofme"><b>Instagram feed</b></a> last week, you would have noticed a few beautiful photographs of flowers. A few friends and I congregated at the beautiful new home of Jasmine of <a href="http://scissorspaperstoneblog.com/"><b>Scissors Paper Stone</b></a> to spend some time together.<br /><br />We were there to chat about some computer technicalities (sort of!), but we were also treated to a beautiful breakfast and an opportunity to each do a floral arrangement to take home. The morning was so very short, as we each had to rush off to pick our children from school, or to run other errands. But a short time well-spent can be so uplifting for the soul.<br /><br />Jasmine's home is so wonderfully light-filled that I managed to capture some lovely shots of our time there. I leave you with a photo line-up of our wonderful morning:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H4OD1flSwDc/U98VCSezExI/AAAAAAAAGx8/08tCA4UHnD0/s1600/PSX_20140803_183121a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H4OD1flSwDc/U98VCSezExI/AAAAAAAAGx8/08tCA4UHnD0/s1600/PSX_20140803_183121a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VDodiPzXzwY/U98VEIq-SeI/AAAAAAAAGyE/hokkbfOk6x8/s1600/IMG_20140801_123958a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VDodiPzXzwY/U98VEIq-SeI/AAAAAAAAGyE/hokkbfOk6x8/s1600/IMG_20140801_123958a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uwwUGyqk-1A/U98VGWdE45I/AAAAAAAAGyM/ds9ZgWxOJRI/s1600/PSX_20140803_183342a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uwwUGyqk-1A/U98VGWdE45I/AAAAAAAAGyM/ds9ZgWxOJRI/s1600/PSX_20140803_183342a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XgjxJcmBnSw/U98VJdpDEwI/AAAAAAAAGyU/K444spyqUk4/s1600/PSX_20140803_182953a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XgjxJcmBnSw/U98VJdpDEwI/AAAAAAAAGyU/K444spyqUk4/s1600/PSX_20140803_182953a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VTkvPxeJWE/U98VLstU8wI/AAAAAAAAGyc/nnOeLP9du9A/s1600/IMG_20140801_124950a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8VTkvPxeJWE/U98VLstU8wI/AAAAAAAAGyc/nnOeLP9du9A/s1600/IMG_20140801_124950a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/U2xuTp1NZ9Y" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com5http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/08/a-morning-of-light-friendship-and.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-78733208617528968172014-08-02T17:36:00.000+08:002014-08-02T17:36:32.391+08:00Sanitize with B-Sanitized (with a Discount Code)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ak-AQc0LgY/U9yoXxInASI/AAAAAAAAGxE/oAAzBZp5GLM/s1600/P1080170a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ak-AQc0LgY/U9yoXxInASI/AAAAAAAAGxE/oAAzBZp5GLM/s1600/P1080170a.jpg" /></a></div><br />Sometime ago, I <a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/01/the-konk-review-bring-on-cny-goodies.html">shared about KONK</a>, a great product from <a href="http://www.ourlifestyleshop.com/"><b>Our Lifestyle Shop</b></a>. Recently, we have been introduced to another product from this same shop, the <a href="http://www.ourlifestyleshop.com/#!product/prd1/667381611/b-sanitized%E2%84%A2-%28made-in-usa%29"><b>B-Sanitized Disinfectant Spray</b></a>.<br /><br />Families with young children or aged relatives, who want to keep the home as germ-free as possible, especially during bouts of illnesses, may find this a useful product to have. It is not uncommon to hear of family members taking turns to fall sick one after another, creating a seemingly never-ending cycle that is as worrying as it is tiring. B-Sanitized is able to kill viruses, bacteria, moulds and fungi (see <a href="http://www.ourlifestyleshop.com/#!product/prd1/667381611/b-sanitized%E2%84%A2-%28made-in-usa%29">here</a> for the EPA Efficacy Kill List), helping to prevent the spread of germs in the home.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YB9_ijDEGdM/U9ytTwYBwqI/AAAAAAAAGxU/dccY5TuR8G0/s1600/P1080174a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YB9_ijDEGdM/U9ytTwYBwqI/AAAAAAAAGxU/dccY5TuR8G0/s1600/P1080174a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><h2><span style="font-size: large;"><b>2 Ways of Using B-Sanitized:</b></span></h2>The interesting thing about this product is that it can be used in two different ways for slightly different purposes.<br /><br /><b>Half-depress of trigger </b>-&nbsp; A small amount of B-Sanitized will be sprayed, allowing you to clean small surfaces like phones, keyboards and taps.<br /><br /><b>Full-depress of trigger </b>- The lock-down of the trigger allows the canister to <i>fully</i> dispense in a very fine mist, and be utilized to fully fog/fumigate all exposed surfaces in the chosen room. When this is done, the recommendation is to leave the room for up to two hours, to allow all the fine mist droplets to dissipate and fall to the ground where they can no longer be inhaled. <br /><br />B-Sanitized is designed to remove any germs already present, however it also leaves a fine residual antimicrobial coating that can last a few days, providing ongoing protection. <br /><br />----------<br />I will be sharing in a later post about our experience in using this product with the above two methods. In the meantime, <a href="http://www.ourlifestyleshop.com/"><b>Our Lifestyle Shop</b></a> is offering my readers a discount on this product!<br /><br />One can of B-Sanitized is priced at $39.90.<br />For <a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/"><b>A Dollop of Me's</b></a> readers, use promotion code: <span style="font-size: large;">corsage</span> to purchase 2 cans for $72 (savings of $7.80). Use one can to clean small surfaces and the other for a room fumigate!<br /><br />This offer is valid till <u>30 August 2014</u>. Happy shopping and cleaning!<br /><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/vYA-wbCauTw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com1http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/08/sanitize-with-b-sanitized-with-discount.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-19210086760719072402014-07-30T12:21:00.002+08:002014-07-30T12:21:35.576+08:00Review: My First Games - Pylos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nA-QClqaTFw/U9Cdo8Y-XRI/AAAAAAAAGwc/o3xF_pWbIiM/s1600/My+First+Games+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nA-QClqaTFw/U9Cdo8Y-XRI/AAAAAAAAGwc/o3xF_pWbIiM/s1600/My+First+Games+Collage.jpg" /></a></div><br />When I felt laid my eyes on this game, I was struck by how beautiful it is. I am first and foremost a visual person, and then kinesthetic. When the smooth wooden balls were in my hands, their lovely wood grain and comforting weight were a delight to my senses.<br /><br />My friend, Pamela of <a href="http://www.myfirstgames.sg/"><b>My First Games</b></a>, and I were meeting up for coffee a couple of weeks after my mother was discharged from hospital after her <a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/my-iherb-haul-9-more-items-to-buy-from.html">long illness</a>. The always kind Pam had brought along games that she thought my mother and father would like to play at home, since they were going to be home-bound quite a bit as my mother was still rather weak. <a href="http://www.myfirstgames.sg/pylos-mini.html"><b>Pylos</b></a> was one of the games, and I have since purchased one set for myself, and another to be gifted to a dear friend soon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TiKecokKRg0/U9hrLLtAGpI/AAAAAAAAGws/tWPoKnstN-k/s1600/P1080037a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TiKecokKRg0/U9hrLLtAGpI/AAAAAAAAGws/tWPoKnstN-k/s1600/P1080037a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />This 2-player game is suitable for older children and adults. Its handy size makes it an ideal game to take along for trips! The basic colours and straightforward rules remind me of my childhood favourite game of Othello! No fancy pieces and pictures, but still loads of fun and friendly competition. The central idea is to aim to place the last ball on the top of the pyramid. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EexyQolhgG0/U9hr1ZtxVBI/AAAAAAAAGw0/8QCcfRwUTEY/s1600/P1080032a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EexyQolhgG0/U9hr1ZtxVBI/AAAAAAAAGw0/8QCcfRwUTEY/s1600/P1080032a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />If you follow My First Games's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MyFirstGames"><b>Facebook Page</b></a>, you will see Pamela's passion in playing games with her three children. It is encouraging to see how she engages each of them in games play, and in the process they learn to follow rules, take turns and strategize, among other skills. <br /><br />My First Games offers a good variety of games suitable for children of different ages. I have my eye on the popular <a href="http://www.myfirstgames.sg/ticket-to-ride-europe.html"><b>Spot It!</b></a>, <a href="http://www.myfirstgames.sg/froggy-boogie.html"><b>Froggie Boogie</b></a>, and<b> <a href="http://www.myfirstgames.sg/snorta.html">Snorta</a></b>, and recently bought <a href="http://www.myfirstgames.sg/ticket-to-ride-europe.html"><b>Ticket to Ride Europe</b></a> for a nephew. Pamela is always very helpful in making games recommendations. <br /><br />Do pop by <a href="http://www.myfirstgames.sg/"><b>My First Games</b></a> to have a look. It is a great site for picking up games for your children or as gifts!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/q32PyrhtWPw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com1http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/review-my-first-games-pylos.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-70533091926414264772014-07-23T14:17:00.000+08:002014-07-23T15:14:03.400+08:00Review: I-Theatre's Round the Moon, Blue the Sky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5DgjzLHQ6g4/U89AZDxHZ2I/AAAAAAAAGvk/bDf2pqtMD6c/s1600/RTM014-960x480a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5DgjzLHQ6g4/U89AZDxHZ2I/AAAAAAAAGvk/bDf2pqtMD6c/s1600/RTM014-960x480a.jpg" /></a></div><br />We were invited to watch <a href="http://www.itheatre.org/"><b>I-Theatre's</b></a> latest production "<a href="http://www.sistic.com.sg/events/moon0714"><b>Round the Moon, Blue the Sun</b></a>" this week.<br /><br />Bun has never been for a theatre show before, and upon seeing that the production is suitable for children from aged 2, I readily said Yes, and looked forward to taking both Bubbles and Bun along.<br /><br />Here is the synopsis for Round the Moon, Blue the Sky:<br /><br />::<br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Why is the moon round?&nbsp;</i></span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Why are there so many colours and shapes in the world?&nbsp;</i></span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Come, journey with Smallest Dragon as she goes in search of answers in a magical, whimsical and colourful world.&nbsp;</i></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">I-Theatre brings you a special collaborative project featuring the best from Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan. Round the Moon, Blue the Sky is a fast-paced, lively and physical production about Smallest Dragon. She is always asking questions, poking her nose into things and curious about the world. What are her favourite words? WHY and HOW and WHAT! One night she sees the moon, and wonders why it is the shape that it is. Fascinated, she sets off to find other round things – and quickly realises that there are many other important shapes too. As she explores, she also discovers the wonder of colours!&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Combining a unique blend of physical theatre, riveting puppetry, black light magic and lots of audience interaction, this highly engaging and educational performance is specially tailored for children from 2 to 8 years old; although older children and grownups will find much to amuse, enthrall and engage too!&nbsp;</span><br />::<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z393A-eKC2E/U89gQu__nXI/AAAAAAAAGwE/lBpUW83SuVI/s1600/DSC09854a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z393A-eKC2E/U89gQu__nXI/AAAAAAAAGwE/lBpUW83SuVI/s1600/DSC09854a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />This 1-hour production is shown in the cozy <a href="http://www.sistic.com.sg/venues?id=40"><b>Alliance Francaise Theatre</b></a>, a stone's throw from Newton MRT station. Little children were provided with small Ikea footstools to sit on atop the seats, to give them a better view, and sitting stability.<br /><br />The story centres around three main characters - <b>Smallest Dragon</b>, <b>Leaf </b>and <b>Twiglet</b>. Among the three, Twiglet had a fixed mindset that only certain things can be found in specific shapes and colour - for example, only the Moon is round, and only the Sky is blue. Her friends Smallest Dragon and Leaf helped her to overcome her fear of exploring new ideas and what the world has to offer. It was nice to see her overcome her fear. <br /><br />The performance included music and dancing, and parts where the children were teased into pointing out characters that were hiding. The children loved these bits and Bubbles joined in to shout and point out the characters "He is there! He is there!" while Bun chuckled and mimicked her sister. The children were also taught to "Look, See, Explore, Discover" - four actions that we remembered after the show ended. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_yTLflQrlOQ/U89gao_umkI/AAAAAAAAGwM/b9M1l4l-SLA/s1600/DSC09978a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_yTLflQrlOQ/U89gao_umkI/AAAAAAAAGwM/b9M1l4l-SLA/s1600/DSC09978a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Towards the end of the story, two children were invited on stage to play with some large cut-outs of different shapes. They were asked to form different objects with the shapes. This was quite interesting and Smallest Dragon and Leaf played along as well, forming objects such as an ice-cream cone (a triangle and a circle), and a cat (a circle and two triangles).<br /><br />This production is based primarily on actions and sounds, with minimal actual conversations. The actors only spoke key words and phrases to make certain points, and would use vocal sounds and other gestures to tell the story. It was interesting to see how little words are needed for the story to unfold. However, on the flip-side, because of this, I feel that this production is probably more suitable for younger children, say 5 and below, as older children may prefer or expect actual words to be spoken or sung.<br /><br />I was glad that both my girls said a resounding <i>Yes</i> when I asked if they enjoyed the show :)<br /><br />Children were treated to a photography session with the characters after the show too - a nice keepsake especially as Bun's first brush with theatre.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OaeEQ7McegI/U89TIhI0e9I/AAAAAAAAGv0/VSPp7SB6bSU/s1600/Round+the+Moon+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OaeEQ7McegI/U89TIhI0e9I/AAAAAAAAGv0/VSPp7SB6bSU/s1600/Round+the+Moon+Collage.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>Round the Moon, Blue the Sky</b> is running till 27 July 2014 and tickets are <a href="http://www.sistic.com.sg/events/moon0714">still available</a>.<br /><br />The show times are: <br />Mon - Wed: 10am &amp; 2pm<br />Thu - Fri: 10am, 2pm &amp; 4pm<br />Sat &amp; Sun: 10.30am &amp; 2pm<br /><br />Thank you I-Theatre for providing us with four tickets for the show! <img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/inmP_y0iHIY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com5http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/review-i-theatres-round-moon-blue-sky.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-30532795025932236272014-07-23T00:47:00.000+08:002014-07-25T15:25:49.148+08:00My iHerb Haul: 9 (more) items to buy from iHerb<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--nCuzS7vfbU/U86KEjKCc9I/AAAAAAAAGvU/6TBVevDY1zw/s1600/iHerb+Collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--nCuzS7vfbU/U86KEjKCc9I/AAAAAAAAGvU/6TBVevDY1zw/s1600/iHerb+Collage.png" /></a></div><br />I shared my first iHerb haul in an <a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/04/my-iherb-haul.html"><b>earlier post</b></a>, and listed five items that I liked. Now that several more purchases have been made, here are 9 more favourites to share with you.<br /><br />If you are a first-time iHerb buyer, I would like to invite you to use my code <b>FLV421 </b>to get up to US$10 off your first order. Stick within the price and weight limit and shipping is a very affordable $4. I have saved a lot shopping on this site!<br /><br /><h2><b>9 items to buy on iHerb:</b></h2>1. <a href="http://www.iherb.com/country-save-laundry-detergent-80-oz-2-27-kg/26299?rcode=flv421"><b>Country Save Laundry Detergent</b></a><br />This is a recommended detergent for washing cloth diapers! We don't use cloth diapers but we use this detergent for all our laundry. It cleans beautifully - we could tell the difference between this and my former regular detergent. A box like this goes a long way too. We will be sticking to this brand for now!<br /><br />2. <a href="http://www.iherb.com/naturally-it-s-clean-floors-25-fl-oz-740-ml/42188?rcode=flv421"><b>Naturally It's Clean Floors&nbsp;</b></a><br />My children play on the floor every single day and I felt that we needed a no-nasties floor cleaner for their sake. This one leaves the floor feeling nice and clean, and with no strong scents. Like the laundry detergent, a little goes a long way for this, so each bottle of this size lasts as long as our former supermarket-brand large bottle. <br /><br />3. <a href="http://www.iherb.com/natracare-organic-natural-panty-liners-30-curved-panty-liners/5735?rcode=flv421"><b>NatraCare Organic &amp; Natural Panty Liners</b></a><br />Without TMI, these work well for those of us with more sensitive skins in our nether regions. These are sold in specialty shops here too, but at marked up prices. I have used boxes of these. No complaints!<br /><br />4. <a href="http://www.iherb.com/alba-botanica-even-advanced-deep-sea-facial-mask-4-oz-113-g/52965?rcode=flv421"><b>Alba Botanica Even Advanced Deep Sea Facial Mask</b></a><br />Ok I have to admit that I am a lazy bum when it comes to skin care. Still, I enjoy the feeling of a face mask, and this one feels just like you would expect a deep sea face mask to. It is cool and thick, and you can feel the gunk being sucked out of your skin when the mask dries on your face. I just bought this brand's <a href="http://www.iherb.com/alba-botanica-natural-even-advanced-sea-algae-enzyme-scrub-4-oz-113-g/23431#p=1&amp;oos=1&amp;disc=0&amp;lc=en-us&amp;w=alba%20botanica%20scrub&amp;rc=154&amp;sr=null&amp;ic=6?rcode=flv421">Sea Algae Enzyme Facial Scrub</a> as well, but I have yet to try it!<br /><br />5. <a href="http://www.iherb.com/nature-s-gate-natural-toothpaste-whitening-gel-flouride-free-5-oz-141-g/7111?rcode=flv421"><b>Nature's Gate Natural Toothpaste</b></a><br />I believe in using fluoride-free toothpaste because in Singapore we already have fluoride added to our water, and it is not necessary (or healthy, according to some research), to get too much of it into our bodies. This toothpaste leaves a fresh, minty, clean feeling that I like. It thicker than regular toothpaste so it takes a bit more strength to press this out. After trying this, I topped up my personal supply and bought a tube for my parents to use too!<br /><br />6. <b><a href="http://www.iherb.com/rainbow-research-baby-oh-baby-organic-herbal-shampoo-unscented-16-fl-oz/36492?rcode=flv421">Rainbow Research Baby Oh Baby Organic Herbal Shampoo (Unscented)</a></b><br />I bought this for my children to try and we quite like it. I found the pumping mechanism useful too. My first purchase was the <a href="http://www.iherb.com/rainbow-research-baby-oh-baby-organic-herbal-shampoo-16-fl-oz/26025#p=1&amp;oos=1&amp;disc=0&amp;lc=en-us&amp;w=rainbow%20baby%20oh%20baby%20shampoo&amp;rc=142&amp;sr=null&amp;ic=2?rcode=flv421">scented version</a>. I actually really liked the scent and I loved to sniff my children's hair after a shampoo. However, my gut feel is that it is usually better to go scent-free, so I bought this instead! But it is a personal preference really!<br /><br />7. <a href="http://www.iherb.com/yummy-earth-organics-gummy-bears-10-snack-packs-25-g-each/33850?rcode=flv421"><b>Yum Earth Organics Gummy Bears (10 Snack Packs)</b></a><br />This is fantastic for parties - to be part of goody bags or stuffed in pinatas! Most parents will prefer their children eating these than many other nasty candies out there. I will also consider popping these into snack/lunch boxes as a special treat!<br /><br />8. <a href="http://www.iherb.com/yummy-earth-organic-pops-assorted-flavors-50-pops-12-3-oz-349-g/10888?rcode=flv421"><b>Yum Earth Organics Organic Pops Assorted Flavours (50 Pops)</b></a><br />Another great find for parties (and the reason why I bought them!) I also keep some in my kitchen to serve as rewards, or to be whipped out when my kids are ill and need some cheering up. The price is unbeatable. <br /><br />9. <b><a href="http://www.iherb.com/nurture-inc-happy-baby-happyyogis-yogurt-fruit-snacks-strawberry-1-oz-28-g/25217?rcode=flv421">Nurture Inc, (Happy Baby), happyyogis Yoghurt &amp; Fruit Snacks</a></b><br />Bun has taken a fond liking to these organic yoghurt snacks and I have purchased them in all sorts of flavours. If your children like these, the prices here are better than most shops in Singapore.<br /><br />That's it! Another 9 great buys that have served us well.<br /><br />Let me know if you like these recommendations!<br /><br />Psst..my friend L has also listed some of her fave iHerb buys <a href="http://littlebluebottle.blogspot.sg/2014/07/iherb-free-shipping-to-singapore-now.html"><b>here</b></a>. That skin cleanser looks like a must-try! <img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/CzpUlQH180I" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com1http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/my-iherb-haul-9-more-items-to-buy-from.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-6558345586082447432014-07-15T23:31:00.000+08:002014-07-15T23:33:29.547+08:00Mint Museum of Toys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IMktXfd3gSc/U8VC18qQf_I/AAAAAAAAGuI/LZ7yZ0-yRy0/s1600/Mint+Toy+Museum+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IMktXfd3gSc/U8VC18qQf_I/AAAAAAAAGuI/LZ7yZ0-yRy0/s1600/Mint+Toy+Museum+Collage.jpg"></a></div><br>I wrote about visiting the <a href="http://www.emint.com/"><b>Mint Museum of Toys</b></a> on <a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/a-day-of-exploring-and-reflecting.html">my day out</a>, and thought to share some photos of what I saw in the museum.<br><br>The short visit was enjoyable, and the whole notion of being on my own felt magnified when I realised that I was the only visitor during the time I was there. (It was slightly spooky initially, to be in darkened rooms with dolls staring down!) However, the delightful experience of being able to <i>take my time</i> to read the write-ups and look closely at the exhibits probably did present to me a rose-tinted view of the place, as any place would, given the situation.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AQV_aMA0XZk/U8VFHhYeDnI/AAAAAAAAGuU/Lg6vtQuQebA/s1600/Mint+Toy+Museum+Collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AQV_aMA0XZk/U8VFHhYeDnI/AAAAAAAAGuU/Lg6vtQuQebA/s1600/Mint+Toy+Museum+Collage+2.jpg"></a></div><br>Still, for the sake of a light-hearted walk down memory lane, this museum is worth a 30-40 minute visit. I would not recommend it for young children though, as the toys and memorabilia are all encased in glass units - there is nothing to touch or to interact with. The glass casings (that were slightly grimy in some places), and the lighting made photography quite a challenge, and I therefore snapped photos with the intention of showing them to my children, without the additional effort to get perfect shots. <br><br>Here are some of the exhibits that caught my eye, see if they jog memories for you too!<br><br><a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/mint-museum-of-toys.html#more">Continue reading »</a><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/-2JpE9FgBeA" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com0http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/mint-museum-of-toys.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-16365005777502876752014-07-10T23:29:00.000+08:002014-07-10T23:29:19.823+08:00A day of exploring and reflecting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NFewEh-VY14/U7wTVGA0wZI/AAAAAAAAGqs/mFAfbTm9e6Y/s1600/Day+Out+Collage+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NFewEh-VY14/U7wTVGA0wZI/AAAAAAAAGqs/mFAfbTm9e6Y/s1600/Day+Out+Collage+1.jpg" /></a></div>There was one special day last week that I spent mostly alone. It was a day carved out for me to enjoy some solitude and to do some quiet reflections. As someone whose days and weeks go by in such a flurry of activity, that one day was something I really looked forward to, and planned for.<br /><br />I put some thought into how I wanted to spend my time. A day can go by in a flash if not planned well. Instead of the usual self-pampering massage or a long-needed hair treatment, I felt drawn to doing something quite different. I wanted to put on my explorer hat and to bring with me a sense of wonder as I did some wandering. Exploring the city on foot seemed so appealing, perhaps because I am less likely able to do properly with my children in tow. I downloaded a number of these <a href="https://www.nhb.gov.sg/NHBPortal/Trails/Overview?_afrLoop=3282672966218639&amp;_afrWindowMode=0&amp;_afrWindowId=1c8oqlu3af_1#%40%3F_afrWindowId%3D1c8oqlu3af_1%26_afrLoop%3D3282672966218639%26_afrWindowMode%3D0%26_adf.ctrl-state%3D1c8oqlu3af_61"><b>heritage trails</b></a> to consider, and hope to do more exploring in the near future! <br /><br />In the end, I decided to spend my time around the Bras Basah area of Singapore, within the <a href="https://www.nhb.gov.sg/NHBPortal/Trails/CivicDistrictTrailI/CivicDistrictTrailI-Overview?_afrLoop=3283121749953346&amp;_afrWindowMode=0&amp;_afrWindowId=1c8oqlu3af_58#%40%3F_afrWindowId%3D1c8oqlu3af_58%26_afrLoop%3D3283121749953346%26_afrWindowMode%3D0%26_adf.ctrl-state%3D1c8oqlu3af_118"><b>Civil District</b></a>, just to enjoy the architecture in the area and poke my nose into little shops. I also made time to visit the <a href="http://www.emint.com/"><b>Mint Museum of Toys</b></a>, a place I have been meaning to see.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-prr99rw3j_Y/U7wZjb5BjhI/AAAAAAAAGq8/PfxJFDamrzc/s1600/Day+Out+Collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-prr99rw3j_Y/U7wZjb5BjhI/AAAAAAAAGq8/PfxJFDamrzc/s1600/Day+Out+Collage+2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />The plan was to first get some exercise by walking, followed by sitting somewhere for breakfast and to journal, and then to take a walk down memory lane by visiting the museum. I later had a long, slow, and I daresay very enjoyable lunch at <a href="http://www.saveur.sg/"><b>Saveur</b></a> all by myself (I chewed so very slowly and sipped my wine), before making my way into Bras Basah Complex, visiting favourites like <a href="http://evernewbookstore.com/"><b>Evernew</b></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BasheerGraphic"><b>Basheer Graphic Books</b></a> and <a href="http://www.catsocrates.com.sg/"><b>Cat Socrates</b></a>, among other shops.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gb-SDT6xofk/U76gYym_IFI/AAAAAAAAGr4/TMupFj1iY94/s1600/Day+Out+Collage+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gb-SDT6xofk/U76gYym_IFI/AAAAAAAAGr4/TMupFj1iY94/s1600/Day+Out+Collage+3.jpg" /></a></div><br />Throughout the day, I had turned off social media notifications and for the most part ignored the phone. It felt a little awkward at first but then there was also sense of liberation to be in the present totally uninterrupted, to think and to take in all that was around me. I felt like I was seeing clearer, breathing better, and was just really aware of my being and my surroundings. It took me a while to get used to eating without looking at my phone (a bad habit I have when I eat alone), but because I had all the time for my meal, I soon got the hang of it, and even enjoyed the experience.&nbsp;<br /><br />I ended the day with a some thoughts and a super long to-do list scribbled in my notebook. Many on the list are boring, unexciting things, but looking at them as a whole, and knowing the thought-processes and plans behind each one, has been encouraging to me. The heart is more settled, the brains in less of a disarray, and I have emerged more centered and ready to tackle reality, craziness and all.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/RllTXcMwY6o" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com5http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/a-day-of-exploring-and-reflecting.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-85222615127071856202014-07-05T16:57:00.000+08:002014-07-05T16:57:33.258+08:00Old School Delights, Upper Thomson Road<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-625MY5_IU5U/U7V3GNOpkeI/AAAAAAAAGms/xKF0DxAu5cs/s1600/P1070539a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-625MY5_IU5U/U7V3GNOpkeI/AAAAAAAAGms/xKF0DxAu5cs/s1600/P1070539a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><a href="http://www.oldschooldelights.com/"><b>Old School Delights</b></a> has been on my "must-try" list for a while, and it was with delight that we made our way there recently. Located along a stretch of shophouses along Upper Thomson Road, it is a little eatery with a menu (and decor) aimed to take one back to the good old childhood days of those of us who grew up in Singapore.<br /><br />The place is deck out with chalkboard walls and old school toys on each table for patrons to play with. It also sells tidbits and toys from yesteryear that many of us grew up with. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dKVs1Q_fdBk/U7V4yZEnCyI/AAAAAAAAGm0/69KJYawGjkc/s1600/P1070540a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dKVs1Q_fdBk/U7V4yZEnCyI/AAAAAAAAGm0/69KJYawGjkc/s1600/P1070540a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mt-_XlCxi_g/U7V40DxwaSI/AAAAAAAAGm8/l668opwiGZw/s1600/P1070543a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mt-_XlCxi_g/U7V40DxwaSI/AAAAAAAAGm8/l668opwiGZw/s1600/P1070543a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgmDmuXSoVs/U7V41zhIeyI/AAAAAAAAGnE/QN8RzeGvcTg/s1600/P1070594a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgmDmuXSoVs/U7V41zhIeyI/AAAAAAAAGnE/QN8RzeGvcTg/s1600/P1070594a.jpg" /></a></div><br />We were given a little whiteboard to write our orders on (can you guess which is mine versus Roboman's handwriting?), which was a bit of a novelty. The food was surprisingly good and true to the flavours we remember and were expecting. I really liked my Hainanese Chicken Rice and thought the portions to be generous. The Tuckshop Wings were good too although more decadent than I remember the chicken wings sold at my schools to be!<br /><br />Roboman was most impressed with the Kueh Pie Tee, one of the best we have had around. The shell was not as thin and melt-in-your-mouth as we get at our aunts' homes during Chinese New Year, but the fillings really hit the mark. My children could not resist the rich chocolate cake, and I have to admit that we did indulge them that day!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPSw3YCLGvM/U7V7CwVJWqI/AAAAAAAAGng/VhuJyQnNHM8/s1600/OSD+Collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPSw3YCLGvM/U7V7CwVJWqI/AAAAAAAAGng/VhuJyQnNHM8/s1600/OSD+Collage+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g8tHElLzOeQ/U7V6qAg79yI/AAAAAAAAGnY/-SNsjKlk9iI/s1600/OSD+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g8tHElLzOeQ/U7V6qAg79yI/AAAAAAAAGnY/-SNsjKlk9iI/s1600/OSD+Collage.jpg" /></a></div><br />Old School Delights is worth a trek to visit. I must warn you that parking can be quite a pain. It is mainly parallel parking along a narrow road, and at peak hours be prepared to either wait for a spot or park much further away and walk. We will go back for the food, especially the Kueh Pie Tee.<br /><br /><i><a href="http://www.oldschooldelights.com/"><b>Old School Delights&nbsp;</b></a></i><br /><i>215M Upper Thomson Road&nbsp;</i><br /><i>Singapore 574349&nbsp;</i><br /><i>Tel: 6458 4518&nbsp;</i><br /><br /><i>Opening Hours:&nbsp;</i><br /><i>Tuesday to Friday - 11.30am - 10.30pm&nbsp;</i><br /><i>Saturday to Sunday - 11am - 10.30pm </i><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/VjfscjfdaSY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com3http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/old-school-delights-upper-thomson-road.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-12528831102314697472014-07-03T23:01:00.000+08:002014-07-03T23:01:14.743+08:00A post-dinner performance treat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t1VWyFy7WJ4/U7VswhEA0qI/AAAAAAAAGmg/7j9TjGc7iw4/s1600/Kids+Dancing+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t1VWyFy7WJ4/U7VswhEA0qI/AAAAAAAAGmg/7j9TjGc7iw4/s1600/Kids+Dancing+Collage.jpg" /></a></div><br />One evening after dinner, my children decided that it was a perfect time for a picnic. We packed a little picnic basket and a picnic mat, and trooped out to somewhere nearby. It was late - maybe 8ish - but my girls were in their element of childlike wonder, exclaiming about how beautiful everything was, the stars, the breeze etc.<br /><br />Suddenly Bubbles told Roboman that her sister and her were going to perform for us. Without missing a beat, Bun immediately took her place next to her sister on top of a bench. <br /><br />We were treated to a ballet performance followed by a monkey dance, and a grand finale of Kungfu Panda moves. (Bubbles gave a running commentary along with the performance by the way, and her sidekick was an ever enthusiastic one who followed instructions pretty well.)<br /><br />I took these grainy photos with a hand shaking from all my laughing, and they have cheered me up many times since that magical evening. <img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/OWUQEo2FHJ8" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com10http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/a-post-dinner-performance-treat.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-25277930457445266542014-07-01T21:37:00.002+08:002014-07-01T21:37:20.387+08:00Giveaway by Lorna Whiston: Phonics Tales Book Set by Scholastic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h1kl6vGCpKg/U7F2_OhixAI/AAAAAAAAGmE/YxqZHRogKr0/s1600/2014+Promotion+9.+Blogger+Corsage+competition+-+a+set+of+phonics+and+reading+books+A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h1kl6vGCpKg/U7F2_OhixAI/AAAAAAAAGmE/YxqZHRogKr0/s1600/2014+Promotion+9.+Blogger+Corsage+competition+-+a+set+of+phonics+and+reading+books+A.jpg" /></a></div><br />If you have read my post on <a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/review-lorna-whistons-short-course-on.html"><b>Lorna Whiston's Short Course on Reading and Phonics for Adults</b></a>, this is a follow-up entry with a nice giveaway. <br /><br />Lorna Whiston is offering a set of <a href="http://shop.scholastic.com/shop/en/teacherstore/phonics-tales-9780545067713"><b>Phonics Tales - </b><b>25 Read-Aloud Storybooks that Teach Key Phonic Skills</b></a> to one reader!<br /><br />To enter the draw, will you need to do is to go to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ADollopOfMe/photos/a.111068078957839.13539.104033206327993/745602495504391/?type=1&amp;theater"><b>this Facebook post</b></a> and leave a comment: "I want this for......pick me!" This giveaway is available to residents in Singapore, and will end on Wednesday 9 July 10pm. One winner will be picked thereafter. <br /><br />All the best!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/t2Dj9kaLRq0" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com3http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/07/giveaway-by-lorna-whiston-phonics-tales.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-17047956679847298942014-06-30T20:30:00.000+08:002014-06-30T20:30:01.818+08:00Review: Lorna Whiston's Short Course on Reading & Phonics for Adults<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EaW4DJsVzrU/U6qFEkb0O8I/AAAAAAAAGkw/R3eupFMptZQ/s1600/2013-01-16+18.47.52a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EaW4DJsVzrU/U6qFEkb0O8I/AAAAAAAAGkw/R3eupFMptZQ/s1600/2013-01-16+18.47.52a.jpg" /></a></div><br />Children in Singapore today are mostly taught to read by learning phonics. I was from the generation where phonics was not taught in school, and when I saw Bubbles having to learn it, I found that I had to learn along with her.<br /><br />When I was asked by <a href="http://www.riseandshine-expo.com/"><b>Rise &amp; Shine</b></a> if I wanted to attend a sponsored <a href="http://www.lornawhiston.com/?view=post&amp;postID=564">short course on reading and phonics</a> by <a href="http://www.lornawhiston.com/"><b>Lorna Whiston</b></a>, one of their partners, I could not say no. Prior to this, I had no idea that such a course was available! This programme is designed for teachers and parents supporting children aged 3-7 years in reading and phonics. Each class is 2-hours long, held over four evenings, one evening a week. As I have no prior knowledge or formal experience in this subject, I attended <u>Level 1</u>. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O-yueoHt8O8/U6qxDQcQgzI/AAAAAAAAGlA/hGesJWNb7kE/s1600/2013-01-16+18.49.36a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O-yueoHt8O8/U6qxDQcQgzI/AAAAAAAAGlA/hGesJWNb7kE/s1600/2013-01-16+18.49.36a.jpg" /></a></div><br />The cohort I was in had about 13 students. Among us were teachers, parents of young children, a volunteer who helps underprivileged children with their schoolwork, and a grandmother of a pre-schooler. It was a cozy group of interested participants.<br /><br />Our class lecturer was <a href="mailto:rosemarygriffiths@lornawhiston.com.sg"><b>Rose Griffiths</b></a>, a teacher from Lorna Whiston. She brings with her years of teaching experience both in Singapore and in the UK. Primarily an early childhood educator, she teaches a number of classes for children at Lorna Whiston. Her experience helped her provide breadth and depth of examples of what works, possible challenges, and common issues early readers face. I found her to be succinct, patient and deliberate in her teaching, making the class worthwhile and interesting.<br /><br />It was clear from Day 1 that the base knowledge of the class was quite varied, and I was curious to see how this would be handled. I found that she was able to create a safe environment for questions to be asked, and kept herself available after each class for quick discussions about specific issues that were beyond the scope of the class. Being a facilitator myself in my day job, I observed that Ms Griffiths included many techniques to engage the group, many of whom were naturally tired after coming by from a day's work. While she is not a high energy lecturer, she was able to give a good pace to the lessons through different group and individual activities, including games, to effectively engage the class and increase participation in discussions.<br /><br />The course objectives and class dates are stated in the poster below: <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-izP3fIPRFDU/U68AyoT_lzI/AAAAAAAAGl0/7RiFKcfJ0vY/s1600/2014+Ecard+12a1.+Short+Course+on+Reading+and+Phonics+A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-izP3fIPRFDU/U68AyoT_lzI/AAAAAAAAGl0/7RiFKcfJ0vY/s1600/2014+Ecard+12a1.+Short+Course+on+Reading+and+Phonics+A.jpg" /></a></div><br />What did I learn in the Level 1 programme?<br /><br />Some of the content covered include:<br /><ul><li>Teaching Phonics - Where to begin? </li><li>Teaching Letter Names </li><li>Sight Words&nbsp;</li><li>Different Approaches to Teaching Reading&nbsp;</li><li>Stages of Phonetic Development&nbsp;</li><li>The Importance of Alliteration&nbsp;</li><li>Phonemic Awareness&nbsp;</li><li>Blends&nbsp;</li><li>Word Families&nbsp;</li><li>Focus on Rhymes, Rhythm, Print, Meaning&nbsp;</li></ul><br />For all of these topics, Ms Griffiths gave many examples of games and activities that we can use to teach our children. The class had the opportunity to play some of these games and try out a few activities. We were taught how to help children to be aware of sounds and shapes/letters that will form the basic foundation of reading. We were also pointed to many useful resources that we can consider using - things like books, learning materials, toys, and websites. I found many of the ideas shared very useful, and wished that I knew some of them earlier, when Bubbles was younger! I really liked that Ms Griffiths emphasized many times that every child is different - each child learns at a different pace and in different ways. She was however also able to empathize with many of the parents in the group, as most knew about the high standards children here are expected to hit once they reach primary school! She did her best to offer helpful suggestions as solutions to problems some of us faced with our children. <br /><br />All in all, I found the course well-worth the time spent, and for the price of S$240 + GST, a reasonable investment. Light refreshments like drinks and biscuits are provided in class but if you think you will get hungry, do try to grab an early dinner! There are many options in United Square. You may want to bring along a cardigan/jacket too as it can get a little chilly. I also carried my own ring file along to serve as a table-top to write on, and a place to keep the handouts.<br /><br />If you are a homeschooling parent, my feel is that this course will be really useful to you. The ideas and tips shared are quite invaluable. As a parent of children who are (and will be) attending a Montessori pre-school, I found some of the ideas familiar as my children's school use similar methods of teaching. It was encouraging for me learn of ways where I could continue similar threads of learning at home. The course also highlighted some mistakes I made in "teaching" my children to read - mainly things I did not even think of doing, and how I emphasized on certain wrong things. As I mentioned above, I really wished I attended this course earlier so that I could have been a better support to Bubbles. Still, I am glad is not too late, and I will be doing some fun activities at home to encourage her to read.<br /><br />If you are interested to sign-up for the next run of the classes (dates above), do contact Jane at 6348 7550. If you would like to find out more about the programme, you can email Ms Rose Griffiths herself at <a href="mailto:rosemarygriffiths@lornawhiston.com.sg">rosemarygriffiths@lornawhiston.com.sg</a>. <br /><br />Lorna Whiston has offered a set of storybooks from Scholastic that teach key phonic skills to one of A Dollop of Me's readers. Look out for the next post on the giveaway!<br /><br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Credits: Photos and Image used in this post are courtesy of Lorna Whiston)</span></i><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/ZMrKexLy-zw" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com4http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/review-lorna-whistons-short-course-on.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-87464229247190844382014-06-29T00:36:00.000+08:002014-06-29T00:36:05.909+08:00Kranji Countryside Farmers' Market<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OFu2IP1xLTc/U67nOUxvFAI/AAAAAAAAGlQ/tSXwmU5DMH0/s1600/kranji-country-farmers-market-event-poster-flyer-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OFu2IP1xLTc/U67nOUxvFAI/AAAAAAAAGlQ/tSXwmU5DMH0/s1600/kranji-country-farmers-market-event-poster-flyer-3.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image Credit: http://sgfarming.wordpress.com/)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />There are few shopping experiences that I enjoy more than pottering around at farmers' markets! I was thus thrilled when my friend <a href="http://intheweehours.wordpress.com/"><b>Delphine</b></a> alerted us about the inaugural <a href="http://sgfarming.wordpress.com/2014/06/12/singapores-inaugural-authentic-farmers-market/"><b>Kranji Countryside Farmers' Market</b></a> organized by the <a href="http://www.kranjicountryside.com/">Kranji Countryside Association</a>. Unfortunately, we made it there late (7ish in the evening), and many of the stalls were either closed or closing, with most stalls not prepared for the crowd. A happy problem for an inaugural run, I say! <br /><br />Coincidentally we bumped into Delphine and her family as they were leaving. Do pop by her blog for better day-time photos of the market.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XqLakiuqTFA/U67r5OBjR3I/AAAAAAAAGlc/AQRSGAntstw/s1600/P1070595a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XqLakiuqTFA/U67r5OBjR3I/AAAAAAAAGlc/AQRSGAntstw/s1600/P1070595a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />Although we were not there for very long, we still managed to buy a few things, and Bubbles even got a chance to do some pottery. The people at the stalls were all really friendly, and it was so pleasant just going around chatting with them and looking at all the interesting produce and goods.<br /><br />I had Bun on my hips for most of the time we were there, so forgive these photos taken with one shaky hand. There was obviously a lot more than I managed to photograph! I particular, I did not photograph any of the fresh produce (as I already have a full fridge at home) but there were many stalls selling those. Do go pay the market a visit to see the stalls yourself if you can, there is still Day 2 (Sunday). Well worth a visit! I am looking forward to this market happening more often!<br /><br />You can view the list of vendors <a href="http://sgfarming.wordpress.com/2014/06/21/kranji-countryside-farmers-market-line-up/"><b>here</b></a>. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cf7WHLPPcIg/U67sPOZintI/AAAAAAAAGlk/zzqAfpW3xO8/s1600/Kranji+Farmers+Market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cf7WHLPPcIg/U67sPOZintI/AAAAAAAAGlk/zzqAfpW3xO8/s1600/Kranji+Farmers+Market.jpg" /></a></div><br /><i>Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market</i><br /><i>28 and 29 June, 2014 (4pm to 10pm) (But do try to go as early as possible!)</i><br /><i>D’Kranji Farm Resort&nbsp;</i><br /><i>10 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718813&nbsp;</i><br /><br />Free shuttles will leave from YEW TEE MRT STATION BUS STOP to D’KRANJI FARM RESORT at 4pm, 4.45pm, 5.30pm, 6.15pm, 7pm and 7.45pm. These shuttles will return from D’KRANJI FARM RESORT to YEW TEE MRT STATION at approximately 4.20pm, 5.05pm, 5.50pm, 6.35pm, 7.20pm and 8.05pm.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/URNOTaorwzg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com0http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/kranji-countryside-farmers-market.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-24543563251809705472014-06-26T20:30:00.000+08:002014-06-26T20:30:00.345+08:00InterContinental Planet Trekkers Menu & Dinner Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NamczZZPhfg/U6mY5JsxzYI/AAAAAAAAGjE/J4Vx7QDJfds/s1600/Buffet+Spread+Set-up+with+a+selection+of+Small+Plates,+Big+Plates+and+Desserts+from+the+new+InterContinental+Planet+Trekkers+Menu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NamczZZPhfg/U6mY5JsxzYI/AAAAAAAAGjE/J4Vx7QDJfds/s1600/Buffet+Spread+Set-up+with+a+selection+of+Small+Plates,+Big+Plates+and+Desserts+from+the+new+InterContinental+Planet+Trekkers+Menu.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sIpJxGjGOXo/U6mZn9KlHfI/AAAAAAAAGjM/eTGzPNHz12M/s1600/A+delicious+spread+of+food,+fun+and+games+at+the+InterContinental+Planet+Trekkers+Dinner+Party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sIpJxGjGOXo/U6mZn9KlHfI/AAAAAAAAGjM/eTGzPNHz12M/s1600/A+delicious+spread+of+food,+fun+and+games+at+the+InterContinental+Planet+Trekkers+Dinner+Party.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><a href="http://www.ihg.com/intercontinental">InterContinental Hotels Group</a> </b>is rolling out its new signature <a href="http://www.intercontinental.com/planettrekkers"><b>InterContinental Planet Trekkers Menu</b></a>, created exclusively for children, across its InterContinental® Hotels &amp; Resorts properties. Designed exclusively for young InterContinental hotel guests by award winning chef Theo Randall and child food expert and best-selling international author Annabel Karmel MBE, the new menu was developed from start to finish with nutrition and food exploration at its core. This menu will be available from end-July 2014. <br /><br />In celebration of the launch, InterContinental Singapore hosted an exclusive dinner party for over 20 children. We were privileged to attend this party, where the foodie feast took guests on a culinary adventure, treating us to a first taste of the new menu. Food explorers were served a selection of appetisers, main courses and desserts, including Smiley Tomato Soup, Broccoli Sweet Corn Fritters, Spaghetti Bolognese with Hide &amp; Seek Vegetables, Wok &amp;<b> </b>Roll Pad Thai, Iced Watermelon Popsicles, Lychee Frogurt and Chocolate Brownie Ice Cream Sundae.<br /><br />Bubbles absolutely loved the tomato soup, and Bun liked the burger patties! We often use in-room dining when we travel with our children, and knowing the care that went into planning this signature children's menu does impress. You can see that there is a variety of classic favourites and international delights that reflect the breadth of the 60 countries that the InterContinental Hotels Group is based in.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGupSgs7Kw4/U6meaHy5oPI/AAAAAAAAGjc/eZnWk9-1SbY/s1600/IHG+Collage+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xGupSgs7Kw4/U6meaHy5oPI/AAAAAAAAGjc/eZnWk9-1SbY/s1600/IHG+Collage+1.jpg" /></a></div>The hotel also treated young guests to a make-your-own Frogurt buffet, a magic show by the affable <a href="http://www.magician.com.sg/"><b>Mr Bottle</b></a>, and had balloons sculpted for them by <a href="http://www.kidsparty.com.sg/"><b>N2 The Balloon Ranger</b></a>.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAVcP1mMiec/U6mxWXgmpOI/AAAAAAAAGkg/cvbMla0Kn2M/s1600/IHG+Collage+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAVcP1mMiec/U6mxWXgmpOI/AAAAAAAAGkg/cvbMla0Kn2M/s1600/IHG+Collage+4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Mr Bottle in particular was a hit with the kids. I have never seen Bun laugh so hard at a performance! She was throwing her head back and laughing out loud at his antics! She even went up when he asked for volunteers, solemnly nodding to both his questions (Are you 2 years' old? Are you married?) before realizing that she was facing a crowd and away from me!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5Jj7dRq7Ig/U6mwU-pGGNI/AAAAAAAAGkQ/pqq9a5nU_hw/s1600/IHG+Collage+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5Jj7dRq7Ig/U6mwU-pGGNI/AAAAAAAAGkQ/pqq9a5nU_hw/s1600/IHG+Collage+3.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQygprFloY8/U6mpPlkqTdI/AAAAAAAAGj4/_CB7Thl7v6Q/s1600/P1070328a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQygprFloY8/U6mpPlkqTdI/AAAAAAAAGj4/_CB7Thl7v6Q/s1600/P1070328a.jpg" /></a></div>Thank you InterContinental Singapore for a fun dinner party. We look forward to ordering from the Planet Trekkers Menu the next time we are at one of the InterContinental properties!<br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(Photo Credits: 1st two photos are courtesy of InterContinental Singapore)</i></span><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/22v41StRsNY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com0http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/intercontinental-planet-trekkers-menu.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-5185709028949710852014-06-24T22:22:00.000+08:002014-06-24T22:24:37.628+08:00Lorong Selamat Food Stalls, PenangWhile <a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/an-exciting-new-project-petite.html">in Penang</a>, Roboman and I left our girls with my-laws for half a day to see the sights in Georgetown on our own. We hired a taxi driver to take us around to visit some historical landmarks, and to make a pit-stop for lunch.<br /><br />We told the good man that we wanted to go to a place where we could eat a variety of Penang street food, and he dropped us off at a corner coffee-shop at Lorong Selamat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3GF6cJ0CM4/U6mCU1FXYCI/AAAAAAAAGiI/SppvLk958Uo/s1600/P1060548a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3GF6cJ0CM4/U6mCU1FXYCI/AAAAAAAAGiI/SppvLk958Uo/s1600/P1060548a.jpg" /></a></div><br />The place looked tiny, and unpromising, but we got off anyway, choosing to trust our driver's recommendation. To our pleasant surprise we enjoyed the food so much, and later found out that this place is rather well-known! In fact, TripAdvisor lists it as a place where you can find the "<a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/ShowUserReviews-g298303-d1159769-r120649830-Lorong_Selamat_Food_Stalls-Georgetown_Penang_Island_Penan.html">World's No. 1 Char Kway Teow</a>". <br /><br />We first placed an order for char kway teow, and were told we had to wait for 30 minutes! Roboman and I used those 30 minutes very well, ordering other dishes like Oyster Omelette, Penang Prawn Noodles, and Penang Laksa. The latter two were fantastic, while the oyster omelette was just good, in comparison.<br /><br />I am hungry just looking at these photos!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DXGiiS4PKTw/U6mFYnyStCI/AAAAAAAAGiQ/B3K_3nZwLeE/s1600/P1060544a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DXGiiS4PKTw/U6mFYnyStCI/AAAAAAAAGiQ/B3K_3nZwLeE/s1600/P1060544a.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Penang Prawn Noodles</td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xv5P2c7XfnU/U6mFjXhxlUI/AAAAAAAAGiY/Rv4s6EVFNeQ/s1600/P1060545a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xv5P2c7XfnU/U6mFjXhxlUI/AAAAAAAAGiY/Rv4s6EVFNeQ/s1600/P1060545a.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Penang Laksa</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nZqijeD7XDg/U6mFkOpnfMI/AAAAAAAAGig/YOXYI7PaJKE/s1600/P1060555a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nZqijeD7XDg/U6mFkOpnfMI/AAAAAAAAGig/YOXYI7PaJKE/s1600/P1060555a.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oyster Omelette</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br />And here are two photos of the famous Char Kway Teow, each plate with 3 big juicy prawns. This dish did not come cheap though, at MYR$8.50 per plate!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CTfMSDestsI/U6mGIx5zx1I/AAAAAAAAGio/OEmdlf3jQzM/s1600/P1060556a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CTfMSDestsI/U6mGIx5zx1I/AAAAAAAAGio/OEmdlf3jQzM/s1600/P1060556a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peuQgKiQZfM/U6mGJnQ1cpI/AAAAAAAAGiw/hkSRfEiXU90/s1600/P1060557a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-peuQgKiQZfM/U6mGJnQ1cpI/AAAAAAAAGiw/hkSRfEiXU90/s1600/P1060557a.jpg" /></a></div><br />I highly recommend this place if you are visiting Penang and do not have much time to spare looking for good street eats. You can get almost all the famous dishes here. The place is buzzing with both locals and visitors, and it is because the food is good, if not cheap. Another advantage of this place is that it is not far from Georgetown's tourist sites, so you do not need to travel far to fit this into your schedule.<br /><br /><i>Lorong Selamat Food Stalls</i><br /><i>Off Jalan Burma, Chinatown</i><br /><i>Georgetown</i><br /><i>Penang Island</i><br /><i>Malaysia </i><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/wtnjKNOxolk" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com1http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/lorong-selamat-food-stalls-penang.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-18732664409472253002014-06-20T20:30:00.000+08:002014-06-21T23:56:15.452+08:00pout's eco.kid and Circle of Friends Review and Discount Code<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qha8TdnruDc/U6FXZdj52SI/AAAAAAAAGhM/3DiS1Zo0cTk/s1600/image003.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qha8TdnruDc/U6FXZdj52SI/AAAAAAAAGhM/3DiS1Zo0cTk/s1600/image003.gif" /></a></div><br />We were on a <a href="http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/an-exciting-new-project-petite.html">beach holiday in Penang</a> recently and we brought along with us a few hair products from <a href="http://pout.com.sg/"><b>pout</b></a>. We were offered three products to try, and I picked all hair products because those are what&nbsp; my often-tangled-haired girls need most right now! They like to swim, and have fine hair, so their hair gets dry and so messy. I sometimes joke that they have birds' nests on their heads!<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6TnHWNryWSQ/U6FkcvkOXiI/AAAAAAAAGhc/tJ7_z_xWLz4/s1600/P1060240a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6TnHWNryWSQ/U6FkcvkOXiI/AAAAAAAAGhc/tJ7_z_xWLz4/s1600/P1060240a.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption">The three products we tried (L-R): <a href="http://pout.com.sg/content/daily-tonic-leave-conditioner-225ml"><b>eco.kid Daily Tonic Leave-in Conditioner</b></a> (S$19.50), <a href="http://pout.com.sg/content/hydrate-intense-conditioner-225ml"><b>eco.kid Hydrate Intense Conditioner</b></a> (S$19.50), and <a href="http://pout.com.sg/content/kylies-pre-swim-conditioner-8oz"><b>Circle of Friends Kylie's Pre-swim Conditioner</b></a> (S$28).</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I am not sure about your children, but mine really detest getting their hair brushed. It is a chicken and egg problem because when their hair is tangled, it is painful to have it brushed. But then hair does not untangle itself!<br /><br />Bun also hates having her hair washed, so putting shampoos and conditioners are always an issue at bath time. Fortunately Bubbles is now alright with getting hair washes, so that is one less problem for me. Still, I chose a leave-in conditioner to try because hey, it is just a spray! No more screams at bath-time to get hair nice and smooth!<br /><br />So here is the result of a couple of sprays on Bubbles' regular bed head. Note that I did <i>not</i> comb or brush her hair after I put on the conditioner. I simply ran my fingers through her hair, and smoothed it down a little when my hands! Not bad, huh? Even Bubbles was impressed when I showed her these photos!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GXLckKoHS4c/U6FqLsx_CLI/AAAAAAAAGhs/oA5yHvocRfM/s1600/EcoKid+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GXLckKoHS4c/U6FqLsx_CLI/AAAAAAAAGhs/oA5yHvocRfM/s1600/EcoKid+Collage.jpg" /></a></div><br />The Hydrate Intense Conditioner is very rich, and great for regular swimmers. It has a mild scent and a thick texture like this:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bCxcN4IMMB8/U6FrghKnHJI/AAAAAAAAGh4/ccsvMXdfqfE/s1600/P1070212a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bCxcN4IMMB8/U6FrghKnHJI/AAAAAAAAGh4/ccsvMXdfqfE/s1600/P1070212a.jpg" /></a></div>You may like to know that <a href="http://pout.com.sg/brands/ecokid"><b>eco.kid products</b></a> are certified organic. They are made in Australia and formulated for kids aged 3-12. There are no silicones, sulphates, biocide preservatives, artificial fragrances and artificial colouring. Products are anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory.<br /><br />And how about <b>Kylie's Pre-swim Conditioner</b>?<br />Our verdict is that it was very easy to use. I simply sprayed it on my children's hair after they were plastered with sunblock on their bodies! The spray comes out as a fine mist, so it was easy to get it all over the hair. It has a slight coconut fragrance.<br /><br />The product information states that this conditioner helps to protect hair from turning green, breaking and drying. It also contains an exclusive blend of polymers, emollients and Vitamin B5. I found that my children's hair did not have that over-chlorinated dry feeling to it after their swims with this product. I like it, and if they keep up with regular swimming like that do now, I will definitely be purchasing this product when it runs out!<br /><br />pout is now offering a special discount to my readers!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Use discount code:&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>dollop10off</b></span>&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">to get 10% off your purchases.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Valid till Sunday 6 July 2014 </div><br />Happy shopping!<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/_2D5CS9xW9k" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com0http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/pouts-ecokid-and-circle-of-friends.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-14888183791500863272014-06-18T23:24:00.000+08:002014-06-18T23:24:00.267+08:00ACT 3 Drama Academy Workshop: "There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9B053sIz15w/U6BUKPKUI_I/AAAAAAAAGgA/vcCAJO7fP1I/s1600/P1070113a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9B053sIz15w/U6BUKPKUI_I/AAAAAAAAGgA/vcCAJO7fP1I/s1600/P1070113a.jpg" /></a></div><br />Bubbles was invited to attend an arts-filled workshop over the weekend conducted by <a href="https://www.act3international.com.sg/drama_academy_singapore_children.htm"><b>Act 3 Drama Academy</b></a>. Based on the amusing story "<a href="https://www.act3international.com.sg/jun-2014-art-event-singapore-old-lady-who-swallowed-a-fly.htm"><b>There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly</b></a>", the children (aged 4-8) were treated to a performance, participated in a drama workshop, experienced some visual arts activities and interacted with an exhibition. <br /><br />As it was a drop-off programme, I hung out a while at the start before leaving Bubbles at the ION Art Gallery where the workshop was held, and went off to get lost in the crowded mall. When I returned 15 minutes before the session ended, Bubbles gave me a grin, waved, and said <i>"See you later, Mum!"</i>, before skipping off to continue her activity. I quickly asked: <i>"Did you have fun?"</i>, as she ran off exclaiming: <i>"Yes!"</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TBHMT3NpEnI/U6BXxCwcTVI/AAAAAAAAGgM/VR5MqCEwXZM/s1600/Act3+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TBHMT3NpEnI/U6BXxCwcTVI/AAAAAAAAGgM/VR5MqCEwXZM/s1600/Act3+Collage.jpg" /></a></div><br />From what I saw, the children were well-engaged in the activities. They were split into groups after watching the performance, so that in smaller numbers they moved around the space to participate in the various elements of the workshop.<br /><br />Bubbles particularly enjoyed the craft work, as well as the opportunity to add to the wall murals. She proudly showed me her drawing on the wall at the end of the session.<br /><br />Many children were obviously taken by the doodling station, where through clever use of hidden buttons rigged on a table, they were able to see their own drawings come to live on the screen!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEC6NW1FzwM/U6BbLRhVGWI/AAAAAAAAGgY/O-orLMVYgFg/s1600/P1070118a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEC6NW1FzwM/U6BbLRhVGWI/AAAAAAAAGgY/O-orLMVYgFg/s1600/P1070118a.jpg" /></a></div><br />This run of the drama workshop has ended, but you can sign your child (3-7yo) up for a 2-hour workshop in September: <a href="https://www.act3international.com.sg/sept_holiday_workshops_singapore_2014.htm"><b>The Owl Who Never Speaks</b></a>.<br /><br />There is also another week left of the <a href="https://www.act3international.com.sg/june_holiday_workshops_singapore_2014.htm"><b>5-day June Holiday Drama Workshops</b></a> to consider, if you need something to fill-up the last week of the school holidays!<br /><br />The following five-day workshops took place from 2 to 6 June, 9 to 13 June, and 16 to 20<br />June, and and will take place too from 23 to 27 June 2014.<br /><br /><b>To the Land of the Wild</b><br />Inspired by Maurice Sendak’s ‘Where the Wild Things Are’, 3 to 5 year olds will embark on<br />an adventure through forests and oceans, and meet zany characters along the way!<br />S$300 per child.<br /><br /><b>The Little Quest</b><br />Children will go on an adventure with the debonair mouse named Stuart Little as he faces comic misadventures during the journey. Suitable for 6 to 8 year olds.<br />S$300 per child.<br /><br /><b>Expedition Weird, Wild and Wonderful</b><br />This workshop is an opportunity for 9 to 12 year olds to go on a journey in search of treasure just like how the Famous Five did in Enid Blyton’s ‘Five on an Island’.<br />$380 per child.<br /><br /><b>Adventures in Middle Earth</b><br />Strange and amazing creatures come together on a journey across Middle Earth to attain what they wish for. Teens aged 13 to 16 will be challenged with character work and achieving a sense of mastery as they story tell and dramatise.<br />S$450 per child.<br /><br />To register for the workshops, parents are invited to book online at <a href="http://www.act3international.com.sg/">www.act3international.com.sg</a>, call ACT 3 Drama Academy at (65) 6735 9986, email at act3int@act3international.com.sg or visit the premises located at ONE-TWO-SIX Cairnhill Arts Centre, 126 Cairnhill Road. More information can also be found on the <a href="https://www.act3international.com.sg/june_holiday_workshops_singapore_2014.htm"><b>website</b></a>.<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/4kYeEYGF-ck" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com0http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/act-3-drama-academy-workshop-there-was.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-76323067222890268062014-06-17T20:30:00.000+08:002014-06-17T21:40:28.933+08:00An exciting new project: petite travellers!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ErLRTKXEmNs/U5_yGeXqb6I/AAAAAAAAGf0/VzBWHZybb14/s1600/Petite+Travellers+Penang+1+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ErLRTKXEmNs/U5_yGeXqb6I/AAAAAAAAGf0/VzBWHZybb14/s1600/Petite+Travellers+Penang+1+Collage.jpg" /></a></div><br />I am so excited to share with you about a new collaborative project that a few of my friends and I have started. We have launched a new blog called <a href="http://petitetravellers.blogspot.sg/"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>petite travellers</b></span></a>!<br /><br />This blog aims to document family-friendly holidays for discerning little people. There will also be travel tips and other interesting content about travelling with children.<br /><br />I have contributed a post based on our recent visit to Batu Ferringhi in Penang. You can read <a href="http://petitetravellers.blogspot.sg/2014/06/batu-ferringhi-penang-beach-holiday.html"><b>my post here</b></a>.&nbsp; <br /><br />We would love for you to visit this new page and to tell us what you think! Comments on the page will be much appreciated, so do pop over to show some love, ok?<br /><br />You can also connect with petite travellers on Instagram (<a href="http://instagram.com/petitetravellers#"><b>@petitetravellers</b></a>) and on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/petitetravellers"><b>Facebook</b></a>. Come travel with us on our new space! <img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/MIYuScd9zJg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com1http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/an-exciting-new-project-petite.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-51985196639279830222014-06-15T00:16:00.000+08:002014-06-15T00:21:23.900+08:00Media Book Launch of "Dear Mister Cat" by Elieth SardiñasI recently attended a media book launch of "<a href="http://www.eliethsardinas.com/#!shop/productsstackergallery4g0=0"><b>Dear Mister Cat</b></a>", a children's book written and beautifully illustrated by <a href="http://Elieth Sardiñas"><b>Elieth Sardiñas</b></a>. Elieth is one of two winners of <a href="http://www.nandos.com.sg/nandos_sg/"><b>N</b><b>andos Singapore's</b></a> <a href="http://www.nandos.com.sg/justsaylah/onground.php">"Dear Nando's</a>" contest, and had her wish of self-publishing this book fulfilled through a full-sponsorship by Nandos. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ggOpuuDZgkA/U5xxvZ-P1SI/AAAAAAAAGcU/rEm8kbjd5XU/s1600/P1060026a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ggOpuuDZgkA/U5xxvZ-P1SI/AAAAAAAAGcU/rEm8kbjd5XU/s1600/P1060026a.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />At the event, Nandos treated us to a lovely spread of their specialties, including the tasting of a new dish called <b>Espetada Carnival</b> - marinated chicken chunks kebab-style, stuffed with feta cheese and garlic. I have always been a Nandos fan and used to insist on a meal whenever I had a chance abroad, before the chain arrived on Singapore's shores. I adore spice and I like grilled meats, so Nandos' spicy Peri-Peri chicken really hits the spot for me.<br /><br />We were also served a number of their designer drinks that included fresh fruit and herbs. They were refreshing on the palate!<br /><br />Elieth also made an adorable felt cat pin for every guest. Such a lovely gesture!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0YMC7S_dw0/U5x0WAMsJMI/AAAAAAAAGcc/snWQd1Vy17M/s1600/DearMisterCat+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0YMC7S_dw0/U5x0WAMsJMI/AAAAAAAAGcc/snWQd1Vy17M/s1600/DearMisterCat+Collage.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />"Dear Mister Cat" is a heart-warming story of love, adventure and imagination. You can pre-order the book on Elieth's website <a href="http://www.eliethsardinas.com/#!shop/productsstackergallery4g0=0"><b>here</b></a>. It is retailing for S$15. <img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/CvVK7TYAWYs" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com0http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/media-book-launch-of-dear-mister-cat-by.htmltag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4881045916952636713.post-7916383786063290602014-06-10T17:41:00.000+08:002014-06-17T18:14:48.478+08:00Shopping for Shoes at ZaloraI am sure most of you would have heard of the fashion focused online shopping site <b>Zalora</b>. It offers over 500 brands and is present not only in Singapore but also in Indonesia, Malaysia &amp; Brunei, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Hong Kong.<br /><br />I myself have been acquainted with it for some time, as my sister is a fan of the site. She does quite a bit of her clothing shopping through them! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rtuqHQ8cko/U5HqRycPcQI/AAAAAAAAGbM/bDMylXnkTko/s1600/Zalora+Collage+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rtuqHQ8cko/U5HqRycPcQI/AAAAAAAAGbM/bDMylXnkTko/s1600/Zalora+Collage+2.png" /></a></div><br /><br />Recently, I had a bit of time to browse through their site more thoroughly, and was impressed with the large variety of fashion products that they carry. After being assured by my sister about their hassle-free returns policy, I signed up for an account and ordered a number of items. <br /><br />To my pleasant surprise, my items arrived really quickly, within 3 days, and each packed neatly in plastic. I tried on all the items, kept those that fit, and sealed back those that did not. It was like having a store's fitting room in one's own house! I then filled out the form provided - it was easy to just tick of the reasons for the return - put the items I did not want back in the plastic envelope, and dropped it off at the post office. In just a few days, I received an email informing me that my money has been refunded! I was impressed by how easy it was. <br /><br />The two items that I bought from the site - a top and a skirt - have served me well too, and I wear them often!<br /><br />Having had this lovely experience, I told Zalora that I am ready to partner them to share more about their site on my blog, so here is my first post...and it is about SHOES!<br /><br /><br /><h2>Shoes at Zalora</h2>Zalora carries almost 100 brands of <a href="http://www.zalora.sg/shoes/"><b>shoes</b></a> on their site - for both men and women. Like Zalora's clothing offerings, you will see affordable options, regular high street finds, and many popular brands like Melissa, Betsey Johnson, Steve Madden, Nine West, Aldo, Dr Martens, and Nike, among many others. <br /><br />Here are a few of my picks - in the 3 broad categories that I classify my own shoes in<span style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;,&quot;serif&quot;; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-SG; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; mso-fareast-language: EN-SG;">!<b> </b></span><br /><br /><b>Comfy choices for running about with the kids: </b><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ujc4M6TBSew/U5H3L7AKwjI/AAAAAAAAGb0/6Ph3VpJmdVY/s1600/Zalora+3+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ujc4M6TBSew/U5H3L7AKwjI/AAAAAAAAGb0/6Ph3VpJmdVY/s1600/Zalora+3+Collage.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brands from L-R: Melissa, Koumi Koumi, Koumi Koumi, Nine West</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4>&nbsp;&nbsp; <b>&nbsp;</b></h4><h4><b>Non-boring pumps for work:</b></h4><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dcj-hZlrPvk/U5H1pjCZScI/AAAAAAAAGbo/ZFq9NXAD5yQ/s1600/Zalora+4+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dcj-hZlrPvk/U5H1pjCZScI/AAAAAAAAGbo/ZFq9NXAD5yQ/s1600/Zalora+4+Collage.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brands from L-R: Aldo, Edge, Steve Madden, Koumi Koumi</td></tr></tbody></table><h4><b><i>&nbsp;</i></b></h4><h4><b><i>Get-into-my-shoe-closet-now</i> gorgeous things:&nbsp;</b></h4><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhoG4UN8G-g/U5H6lJk4H9I/AAAAAAAAGcA/VWqWPPEa9NY/s1600/Zalora+5+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhoG4UN8G-g/U5H6lJk4H9I/AAAAAAAAGcA/VWqWPPEa9NY/s1600/Zalora+5+Collage.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brands from L-R: Nine West, Betsey Johnson, Blink, Edge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I had fun picking out these shoes, and I hope you enjoyed the eye candy! Do have a browse around the site yourself and see if anything catches your fancy!<br /><br />(This post is brought to you by Zalora Singapore. Photo credits: Zalora.sg. The words, opinions, and photo layouts are my own.)<img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/ADollopOfMe/~4/5pDfKxbky14" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>Corsage@A Dollop Of Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12147931647105342881noreply@blogger.com0http://www.adollopofme.com/2014/06/shopping-for-shoes-at-zalora.html